Silverado Canyon Motorway Trail

Silverado Canyon Motorway Trail is a 6 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Temescal, California that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

DISTANCE

6.0 miles

ELEVATION GAIN

1906 feet

ROUTE TYPE

Out & Back

dogs on leash

hiking

horseback riding

mountain biking

nature trips

walking

views

wild flowers

wildlife

Once you hit the trail, it's 3 miles of straight up. Single track trail (lots of gravel). Gorgeous views the entire way, especially at the top. Watch out for mountain bikers coming down... There's a reason it's called the "Motorway." Water crossing at the trail head. Absolutely No tree cover!!! If you're thinking of doing this in the Summer, start early!
Trail head parking is extremely sparse (5-6 designated spots) with a sign posted "No parking unless within designated spot." Adventure pass required.

Awesome Trail with a great view of all of Southern California. As other reviews say, its 3 miles straight up but there are plenty of switchbacks to help with the ascent. My garmin said it was about 2023 vertical feet. There is gravel for about 75% of the hike so be sure to wear comfortable shoes with good traction. Bring plenty of water and maybe a little snack to fuel up after your climb. I'm defiantly planning on coming back and doing this one again.

Side note: We brought our dog (which this trail is dog friendly) but maybe have your dog wear boots cause the gravel can be a lot of a dogs paws.

Grace my GSD and I just finished this hike. I 100% agree with a previous review that you can skip leg day after this one. I agree with everything Sara Anne Robinson wrote. I'd like to add this this isn't kid friendly. I say that because you're exposed to the elements and it's a straight up for the duration of the first half. Also, getting to the trailhead isn't tricky but you could start to second guess yourself. Just stay on Silverado Canyon Rd until you come to the end of the road and that's the trailhead.

You can definitely skip leg-day after this trek. Once you hit the trail, it's 3 miles of straight up. Single track trail (lots of gravel). Gorgeous views the entire way, especially at the top. Watch out for mountain bikers coming down... There's a reason it's called the "Motorway." Water crossing at the trail head after rains. Absolutely No tree cover!!! If you're thinking of doing this in the Summer, start early!Absolutely stunning in winter/spring after a bit of rain!!!